Laminate assembly and method of manufacture

ABSTRACT

A laminate assembly comprises a base layer, a substantially transparent inclusion layer disposed above the base layer and having a plurality of included objects disposed within the inclusion layer, and a substantially transparent top layer disposed above the inclusion layer. The base layer, inclusion layer, and top layer are formed in succession.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application, Application No. 60/519,180, filed on Nov. 11, 2003.

BACKGROUND

Laminate structures are used for a variety of purposes, such as countertops, tabletops, furniture, flooring, wall cladding, and windows. However, new types of laminate structures are generally desired by architects, interior designers, and others to produce new and unique products and designs to achieve the desired look and finish for these surfaces.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an embodiment of a laminate assembly;

FIG. 2 is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of a method of making the laminate assembly;

FIG. 3 is a simplified flowchart of another embodiment of a method of making the laminate assembly;

FIG. 4 is a more detailed flowchart of an embodiment of a method of making the inclusion layer of the laminate assembly;

FIGS. 5A-5E are photographs illustrating an embodiment of laminate assembly 10 in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 6A-6I are photographs illustrating the embodiment of laminate assembly 10 illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5E backlit using a light source; and

FIGS. 7A and 7B are photographs illustrating another embodiment of laminate assembly 10 in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an embodiment of a laminate assembly 10. Laminate assembly 10 comprises a multi-layer structure having one or more types of included objects disposed at varying depth of the assembly. According to one embodiment of laminate assembly 10, laminate assembly 10 comprises a top layer 12 disposed above an inclusion layer 14. Top layer 12 may be constructed of a material that is transparent or translucent that preferably provides protection against damage from ultraviolet light. Top layer 12 should also be constructed of a material that has adequate hardness to guard against scratches and scrapes, and against damage by mild cleaning solutions and heat. Top layer 12 is also preferably stain-resistant and does not yellow or fade with age. Top layer 12 may be an acrylic urethane coating, for example, or other suitable materials in combination with other resin compounds, catalysts, hardeners, and filler materials.

Inclusion layer 14 is bonded to top layer 12 and has a plurality of included objects 16 disposed at varying depths in a transparent or translucent material of a predetermined thickness. Included objects 16 may include glass, minerals, shells, semi-precious cut or uncut gems, and other natural and/or man-made objects. Included objects 16 may overlap one another in inclusion layer 14 at different depths. In one embodiment of laminated assembly 10, selenite mineral portions or slices are scattered at different depths in a polyester resin. In another embodiment, satin spar is used as included objects. The selenite portions have planes of flat surfaces that catch and reflect light. The pearlescent sheen of selenite makes the end laminate assembly product especially lovely. Selenite is a gypsum product that may be cleaved into pieces of varying sizes. The size of the included objects may be designed with the size of the overall laminate assembly in mind. For example, a laminate assembly to be used for a large span of wall cladding may have larger pieces of included objects than another laminate assembly designed for a bar countertop. The included objects, such as the selenite pieces, may be further processed to alter their appearance, such as being tinted with different colors. The transparent or translucent material layer may also carry a slight overall or localized tint. Inclusion layer 14 may be a polyester, for example, or other suitable materials in combination with other resin compounds, catalysts, hardeners, and filler materials.

It should be understood that the type and size of included objects 16 that may be employed in laminate assembly 10 are virtually limitless. The only physical limitation of its size is the thickness of inclusion layer 14 and the size of laminate assembly 10. The included objects in a laminate assembly may be somewhat uniform in size or may vary widely in size. Further, a laminate assembly may have included objects of the same type or different types, same color or different colors, etc.

Inclusion layer 14 is disposed above a base layer 18. Base layer 18 may be a translucent or opaque layer. Base layer 18 should be made out of a material that gives the laminate assembly structural integrity and would prevent the assembly from warping, shrinking and cracking. Base layer 18 may be an epoxy or a fiberglass layer, for example. Base layer 18 may be tinted to a predetermined color.

A light source 22 and/or 24 with an optional light diffuser 20 may be used to illuminate and visually enhance the appearance of laminate assembly 10. Light source 22 is disposed substantially below base layer 18 in a plane parallel to base layer 18 so that light emanating therefrom is directed perpendicularly into the parallel planes of layers 12, 14, and 18. Light source 24 is disposed substantially along one or more edges of laminate assembly 10 so that light emanating therefrom is directed in parallel into the parallel planes of layers 12, 14, and 18. Depending on the intensity of light source 24, its light may create an illuminated band into laminated assembly 10 along the lit edge. Light sources 22 and 24 may comprise a flat electroluminescent panel or a light assembly using light emitting diodes (LEDs), for example. The color and intensity of the light from light source 22 and 24 may be selected to achieve the desired overall appearance and effect. The color in the light source may even alternately change from one color to another or from one color combination to another color combination. Alternately, a light source that emits invisible light, such as ultraviolet light may be used in combination with florescent included objects in the inclusion layer to emit visible light therefrom. The laminate assembly may alternatively have substantially transparent and/or translucent layers that may be installed to enable ambient light or natural light to pass therethrough. For example, the laminate assembly may be used in a privacy window or other applications where the passage of sunlight or natural light and discreetness are both desired characteristics.

A light diffuser 20 may be sandwiched between the light source and the base layer and may be used to soften and diffuse the light to achieve a desired effect. In one embodiment, light diffuser 20 may be a low-density layer of sand of a desired thickness. In another embodiment, light diffuser 20 may be a gelatin filter that may alter the color of the light from light source 22 or 24. The light source and/or light diffuser may be bonded or adhered to the base layer or the assembly edges using suitable mechanical or chemical means, such as glue, adhesives, clamps, a frame holding the assembly, etc.

FIG. 2 is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of a method of making the laminate assembly. Base layer 18 is first formed in block 30. This step may entail combining the base layer component materials and then pouring it into a mold. A mold release may be applied to the mold to facilitate releasing the formed laminate assembly from the mold. The mold may comprise a glass table to form a substantially planar and level surface. Alternatively, the mold may comprise a bottom surface that has a desired profile for the end product. Gravitational forces act to level base layer 18 within the mold. The base layer is then allowed to cure to a desired degree in block 32. An inclusion layer 14 is then formed on top of base layer 18 in block 34.

FIG. 4 is a more detailed flowchart of an embodiment of a method of making the inclusion layer of the laminate assembly. Inclusion layer 14 may be poured or formed in stages. In block 36, a plurality of included objects 16 are placed on top of base layer 18. Prior to placing the included objects in the mold, they may be “wetted” with the material that will form inclusion layer 14 to minimize the formation of bubbles and to prevent included objects from rising to the surface. The size and number of included objects 16 should be selected carefully to achieve a desired appearance and effect. Because the base layer is not completely cured, it may receive and hold the included objects in place oriented in a random manner. The inclusion layer material is then poured over the included objects in block 38. Preferably, the inclusion layer material has a thickness that substantially completely covers the included objects. The inclusion layer is then allowed to cure to a desired degree in block 40. If the desired thickness of the inclusion layer is reached 42, then the formation of the inclusion layer is completed. If the desired thickness has not been reached or some of the included objects are protruding from the level surface of the inclusion layer, then additional inclusion layer material and/or included objects are added to the mold in blocks 36 and 38, and allowed to cure to a certain desired degree in block 40. These steps are repeated until the desired thickness is reached and all of the included objects are substantially immersed within the inclusion layer.

It may be desirable to vibrate the mold and its contents during the pouring and/or curing process in forming the base layer and/or inclusion layer by using a shake table. Such vibrations may be able to eliminate or minimize the number and/or size of air bubbles therein. Acetone or another chemical product may be applied to the surface of inclusion layer to further eliminate any bubbles formed at the surface.

Returning to FIG. 2, after the formation of the inclusion layer, it is allowed to cure to a certain desired degree in block 50. A top layer 12 of a UV-resistant and durable material is then poured over or applied to the inclusion layer in the mold in block 52 to achieve coverage of the inclusion layer. The top layer is operable to prevent delamination of the multiple layers of the laminate assembly, prevent the included objects from rising to the surface, and improve the durability of the laminate assembly surface. The application of the top layer may be performed by spraying, brushing, pouring, and/or a combination of these methods. The top layer is then allowed to cure in block 54. The entire assembly may require some additional cure time prior to handling and/or removing it from the mold. One or more light sources may then be added to the laminate assembly either along a parallel plane adjacent to the base layer or along one or more edge of the laminate assembly in block 56.

FIG. 3 is a simplified flowchart of another embodiment of a method of making the laminate assembly. Instead of forming the base layer first, the laminate assembly may be constructed by forming top layer 12 first in block 60. A UV-resistant and scratch-resistant material such as acrylic urethane may be used to form top layer 12. The top layer is allowed to cure to a certain desired degree in block 62. An inclusion layer 14 with included objects 16 disposed at varying depth therein is then formed in block 64 as described in more detail above and shown in FIG. 4. The inclusion layer is then allowed to cure to a certain desired degree in block 66. A base layer 18 of a predetermined thickness is then formed on top of inclusion layer 14 in block 68. The base layer is then allowed to cure to a certain desired degree in block 70. The entire assembly may require some additional cure time prior to handling and/or removing it from the mold. One or more light sources may then be added to the laminate assembly either along a parallel plane adjacent to the base layer or along one or more edge of the laminate assembly in block 72.

Because the top layer and the inclusion layer materials are substantially transparent, the generally overlapping included objects resting at various depths in the inclusion layer are visible to users viewing the laminate assembly.

Another embodiment of laminate assembly comprises a substantially transparent inclusion layer with the included objects resting at various depths therein, and a durable substantially transparent top layer over the inclusion layer. It may also be contemplated that the laminate assembly comprises an inclusion layer without a base layer or a top layer.

Laminate assembly 10 may be used to form a variety of products and applications such as, but not limited to, countertops, tabletops, furniture, and wall cladding. Virtually any horizontal and vertical surfaces in a commercial or residential environment may employ this laminate assembly to significantly enhance its appearance. Depending on the objects included in laminate assembly, different moods may be imparted. Organic, inorganic, natural, manmade objects in homogeneous compositions, sizes and shapes may be used. For example, precious and semiprecious minerals, pearls, mother of pearl, and other materials with a luster may impart beauty and elegance. Florescent and/or phosphorescent minerals or materials may also be used as included objects to achieve a particular desired appearance. UV light sources may be used with laminate assemblies with florescent included objects so that visible light are emitted thereby.

FIGS. 5A-5E are photographs illustrating an embodiment of laminate assembly 10 in accordance with the present invention. In FIGS. 5A-5E, included objects 16 comprise selenite portions disposed at varying depths of inclusion layer 14 and disposed at varying longitudinal and lateral locations within inclusion layer 14. FIGS. 6A-6I are photographs illustrating the embodiment of laminate assembly 10 illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5E backlit using an electroluminescent panel light source 22. FIGS. 7A and 7B are photographs illustrating another embodiment of laminate assembly 10 in accordance with the present invention. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, included objects 16 comprise stained selenite portions. In FIGS. 7A and 7B, the selenite portions are stained to a variety of colors; however, it should be understood that laminate assembly 10 may also be formed such that the inclusion objects are stained or dyed to a generally single and uniform color.

Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, those skilled in the art should understand that they may make various changes, substitutions and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, all such changes, substitutions and alterations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the following claims. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. 

1. A laminate assembly comprising: a base layer; a substantially transparent inclusion layer disposed above the base layer and having a plurality of included objects disposed within the inclusion layer; and a substantially transparent top layer disposed above the inclusion layer.
 2. The laminate assembly of claim 1, further comprising a substantially flat light source disposed below the base layer and operable to direct light perpendicularly into the base layer, inclusion layer, and top layer.
 3. The laminate assembly of claim 2, further comprising a light diffusing layer disposed between the light source and the base layer.
 4. The laminate assembly of claim 3, wherein the light diffusing layer further modifies the color of light emanating from the light source.
 5. The laminate assembly of claim 1, further comprising a light source disposed along an edge of the laminate assembly and operable to direct light in parallel of the base layer, inclusion layer, and top layer.
 6. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the base layer is substantially translucent.
 7. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the base layer is substantially transparent.
 8. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the base layer is substantially opaque.
 9. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a homogeneous composition of included objects.
 10. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a heterogeneous composition of included objects.
 11. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a composition of similar-sized included objects.
 12. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a composition of different-sized included objects.
 13. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a composition of overlapping included objects.
 14. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a plurality of selenite portions.
 15. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a plurality of mineral portions.
 16. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a plurality of organic included objects.
 17. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a plurality of manmade included objects.
 18. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the top layer comprises acrylic urethane.
 19. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the top layer comprises polyester.
 20. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the inclusion layer comprises polyester.
 21. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the base layer comprises an epoxy.
 22. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the base layer comprises fiberglass.
 23. The laminate assembly of claim 2, wherein the substantially flat light source comprises a flat electroluminescent panel.
 24. The laminate assembly of claim 5, wherein the light source comprises light emitting diodes.
 25. The laminate assembly of claim 5, wherein the light source comprises ambient light.
 26. The laminate assembly of claim 1, wherein the top layer and inclusion layer are substantially translucent.
 27. A method of making a laminate assembly, comprising: pouring and partially curing a first resin material in a mold; wetting a plurality of included objects with a second resin material and placing the plurality of included objects on the first resin layer, the second resin material being substantially transparent; pouring the second resin material over the plurality of included objects and partially cured first resin material in the mold; partially curing the second resin material; pouring and partially curing the second resin material until all included objects are substantially immersed; pouring and partially curing a third resin material over the second partially cured resin material; and curing the entire assembly and removing the cured assembly from the mold.
 28. The method of claim 27, wherein pouring and partially curing a first resin material comprises pouring and partially curing a substantially translucent material.
 29. The method of claim 27, wherein pouring and partially curing a first resin material comprises pouring and partially curing a substantially opaque material.
 30. The method of claim 27, wherein pouring and partially curing a first resin material comprises pouring and partially curing a substantially translucent material.
 31. The method of claim 27, wherein pouring and partially curing a first resin material comprises pouring and partially curing a fiberglass material.
 32. The method of claim 27, wherein pouring and partially curing a first resin material comprises pouring and partially curing an epoxy material.
 33. The method of claim 27, wherein pouring and partially curing a first resin material comprises pouring and partially curing an acrylic urethane.
 34. The method of claim 27, wherein pouring and partially curing a second resin material comprises pouring and partially curing a substantially transparent material.
 35. The method of claim 27, wherein pouring and partially curing a second resin material comprises pouring and partially curing a substantially translucent material.
 36. The method of claim 27, wherein pouring and partially curing a second resin material comprises pouring and partially curing a polyester.
 37. The method of claim 27, wherein wetting a plurality of included objects comprises wetting a plurality of objects of homogeneous type and size.
 38. The method of claim 27, wherein wetting a plurality of included objects comprises wetting a plurality of objects of heterogeneous type and size.
 39. The method of claim 27, wherein wetting a plurality of included objects comprises wetting a plurality of mineral pieces.
 40. The method of claim 27, wherein wetting a plurality of included objects comprises wetting a plurality of selenite pieces.
 41. The method of claim 27, wherein wetting a plurality of included objects comprises wetting a plurality of satin spar pieces.
 42. The method of claim 27, further comprising affixing a substantially flat light source to the laminate assembly so that light passes through the first, second and third resin material layers.
 43. The method of claim 27, further comprising affixing a substantially flat light source to the laminate assembly so that light passes through perpendicularly with respect to the planes of the first, second and third resin material layers.
 44. The method of claim 27, further comprising affixing a substantially flat light source to the laminate assembly so that light passes through in parallel with respect to the planes of the first, second and third resin material layers.
 45. The method of claim 42, further comprising affixing a light diffuser between the light source and the laminate assembly.
 46. The method of claim 42, further comprising affixing a gelatin filter between the light source and the laminate assembly.
 47. The method of claim 27, further comprising vibrating the mold.
 48. The method of claim 27, further comprising adding a color tint to the first resin material.
 49. The method of claim 27, further comprising adding a color tint to the second resin material.
 50. The method of claim 27, further comprising adding a color tint to the third resin material.
 51. The method of claim 27, further comprising adding a color tint to the included objects.
 52. The method of claim 27, further comprising placing additional wetted included objects on the partially cured second resin material.
 53. A laminate assembly comprising: a base layer; a substantially transparent inclusion layer bonded to the base layer and having a plurality of included objects disposed within the inclusion layer; a substantially transparent top layer bonded to the inclusion layer; and a light source adhered to at least the base layer operable to emit light through the layers of the assembly.
 54. The laminate assembly of claim 53, wherein the base layer is substantially translucent.
 55. The laminate assembly of claim 53, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a homogeneous composition of included objects.
 56. The laminate assembly of claim 53, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a heterogeneous composition of included objects.
 57. The laminate assembly of claim 53, wherein the inclusion layer comprises a composition of overlapping included objects.
 58. The laminate assembly of claim 53, wherein the top layer comprises acrylic urethane.
 59. The laminate assembly of claim 53, wherein the top layer comprises polyester.
 60. The laminate assembly of claim 53, wherein the inclusion layer comprises polyester.
 61. The laminate assembly of claim 53, wherein the base layer comprises an epoxy.
 62. The laminate assembly of claim 53, wherein the base layer comprises fiberglass.
 63. A laminate assembly comprising: a substantially transparent inclusion layer having a plurality of included objects disposed within the inclusion layer; and a substantially transparent top layer disposed above the inclusion layer.
 64. A manufactured surface comprising: a substantially transparent inclusion layer having a plurality of included objects disposed within the inclusion layer; and a light source disposed adjacent to the inclusion layer.
 65. The manufactured surface of claim 64, further comprising a light diffusing layer disposed between the light source and the inclusion layer. 